badge - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
badge Word Meanings
- a small piece of metal or cloth showing a person's rank or membership
- a sign or symbol of something
- to mark or identify someone or something
badge Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
badge Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bædʒ/
US
/bædʒ/
badge Word Etymology
badge = badg(e) + suffix -e. Historical origin: Latin→Old French→English. Memory image: Imagine a shiny badge pinned to a uniform, showing achievement and identity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I grab the badge and move it toward my jacket, lining it up with the seam. I push it gently into place, feeling the metal cool and steady against my finger. I straighten my posture and adjust it so it sits evenly. That small action makes the badge shift from decoration to a signal of belonging, and I know how it will show up in real life.
Real Context
Badge is a small emblem worn or displayed to show rank, membership, achievement, or affiliation. It can be a metal pin, a fabric patch, or a digital icon on a profile. In schools, workplaces, clubs, and online platforms, badges offer quick signals of status and participation, often motivating learners or members. People collect badges from courses, conferences, volunteer programs, or loyalty schemes, and some organizations issue badges for completing a milestone or demonstrating a skill. The verb form badge also appears in phrases like to badge someone with/for an ID, meaning to mark or identify them. Note the difference from medal or label.
Usage Reminders
- Use badge to describe a symbol, not a person.
- Badge can be physical or digital.
- Earn badges by completing tasks, courses, or meeting criteria.
- Differentiate badge from medal or label.
- In verbs, 'to badge' is mostly formal; use 'assign a badge' or 'grant a badge' when appropriate.
Common Misconceptions
- A badge is always a metal pin
- Badges are only for scouts or the military
- A badge equals a high rank automatically
- Badges are the same as labels
- Digital badges are not real badges
Thinking Differences
English speakers often see a badge as a discrete symbol, sometimes tied to formal achievement or identity in a system. Learners might confuse it with a medal or a name tag, or think badges must be metal pins. English emphasizes collocations like 'badge of honor' or 'security badge', and the verb usage is relatively formal in official contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn common badge collocations (badge of honor, security badge).
- Differentiate badge from medal and label in context.
- Notice digital badge etiquette on professional networks.
- Practice verbs: assign a badge, grant a badge, badge someone with.
- Watch for context: corporate vs educational use.
- Pronounce badge with /eɪdʒ/ correctly.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'badge'?
A.A small toy
B.A sign of authority
C.A type of food
D.A musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'badge' used correctly?
A.She played the badge beautifully.
B.Let's eat some badge for dinner.
C.He wore a badge that identified him as a police officer.
D.I need to buy a new badge for my car.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'badge'?
A.Pen
B.Emblem
C.Book
D.Shoe
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'badge'?
A.Patch
B.Sash
C.Badge
D.Crown
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you need to display a badge?
A.At a zoo
B.When entering a secure building
C.During a concert
D.In a library
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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